If you need authorized copies of birth or marriage certificates from West Virginia and want to get them apostilled by the state, this guide will walk you through the process step-by-step. Gathering these vital records and authenticating them with an apostille is often necessary for various legal purposes.
Obtaining Birth Certificates in West Virginia
There are three main ways to get an authorized copy of a West Virginia birth certificate:
Online
You can request a birth certificate online through the West Virginia Health Statistics Center website. Follow the instructions to submit your application.
By Mail
Print and fill out an application, then mail it to the Vital Registration Office along with proper identification and payment:
Vital Registration Office
Room 165, 350 Capitol Street
Charleston, WV 25301-3701
In Person
Visit the Vital Registration Office in Charleston or go to the County Health Department where the birth was registered. Bring required identification and payment.
Securing Marriage Certificates in West Virginia
You can obtain authorized copies of West Virginia marriage certificates in the following ways:
Online
Request a marriage certificate through the official West Virginia government website or via approved third-party services.
By Mail
Send a completed request form and payment to the County Clerk’s office where the marriage license was originally issued.
In Person
Go to the County Clerk’s office that issued the marriage license and request a certified copy in person. Provide identification and payment.
Getting a West Virginia State Apostille
After obtaining your authorized birth or marriage certificate, you can get it apostilled by the West Virginia Secretary of State’s office. Here’s how:
- Ensure your document is properly notarized.
- Mail or hand-deliver your document(s) to:
Secretary of State’s Office
Attn: Apostille Department
1900 Kanawha Boulevard East
Charleston, WV 25305
Remember to include the appropriate payment, request form, and cover letter if required.
Helpful Resources
- West Virginia Health Statistics Center – Certificate Requests
- West Virginia Vital Registration Office
- West Virginia Secretary of State – Apostille Request Form
For additional assistance, contact the West Virginia Secretary of State’s office at (304) 558-6000 or visit their website.
Simplifying the Process
Gathering vital records and navigating the apostille process in West Virginia can seem daunting, but by following these steps and utilizing the resources provided, you can obtain the authorized documents you need efficiently. Having your birth or marriage certificate apostilled opens up opportunities for international use.
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